The altruistic face of lobbying

Published: 26 February 2007

I've been indirectly involved this week in the sort of effort that
reinforces my faith in the contribution that advocacy can make to the
betterment of society. This week has seen the parliamentary launch of Dropping off the Edge
by Professor Tony Vinson. Such research doesn't come cheap, even if the
main researchers gain no personal financial rewards. Some sceptics will
find self-interest in any proposals for government remedial action but
there is none in these efforts to alleviate social disadvantage in an
otherwise rich nation - John Warhurst